As candid conversations about mental health and self-care have become more common and less stigmatized, it’s easy to understand why prioritizing mental health in the workplace is so important. After all, we dedicate much of our time and energy to whatever helps us pay the bills.
Whether it’s your dream job, side hustle, or something in between, prioritizing mental health in the workplace is essential for fostering an environment where employees feel heard and valued.
For those who find themselves drained and thinking, My boss is affecting my mental health, how concerned should you be? Do you tough it out or move on? And just how much influence do managers and supervisors have on our overall well-being in the workplace?
A recent study by the Workforce Institute UKG revealed that workplace managers and bosses have a greater impact on employees’ mental health than even therapists and doctors. In other words, the influence these leaders have on our mental health — whether positive or negative — is comparable to that of a spouse or partner.
Less Pay, More Peace
Supporting the argument that good mental health at work can be more valuable than a higher paycheck, more than 80% of employees surveyed by the Workforce Institute said they would choose greater peace of mind, even if it meant less pay. In fact, two-thirds of employees would accept a pay cut to support their mental health, as would 70% of managers.
The daily stressors of work — often leading to depression and burnout — are no longer being swept under the proverbial rug. Employees are becoming more aware of how much stress is too much. Conversations about how to improve mental health in the workplace now focus on addressing the negative impact these stressors have on workers’ home lives, physical health, satisfaction, and relationships.
The daily stressors of work — often leading to depression and burnout — are no longer being swept under the proverbial rug. Employees are becoming more aware of how much stress is too much.
The American Psychiatric Association’s (APA) Center for Workplace Health reports that 80% of workers treated for mental illness experience Improved job efficacy and satisfaction. Ignoring these issues, however, hits employers where it hurts: their pocketbooks. There’s a significant financial toll when employers fail to address employee mental health. APA statistics show depression alone costs US employers $43 billion annually.
Becoming Part of the Solution
During COVID, the phrase “It’s OK not to be OK” became common, and as a result, seeking mental health counseling online and through apps surged in popularity.
The old notion of “suffering in silence” is being replaced by managers sharing their mental health struggles with employees. The hope is that once trust is established, workers will feel comfortable doing the same.
Managers and higher-ups are also being challenged to model a healthy work-life balance by focusing on boss mental health. This approach encourages employees to feel safe discussing how their home life may be affecting their workplace well-being.
Mental health training for managers has become a critical investment, providing them with the tools to better understand and support their employees. Yet, despite these advancements, there remains significant room for improvement in promoting mental health in the workplace.
Nearly one in five adults aged 18 and over struggles with mental illness, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. When left unaddressed, these issues inevitably spill into work life.
According to the American Psychological Association’s 2023 Work in America Survey, over 90% of US workers want to work for an organization that values mental health and well-being. However, only one-third of workers said their managers actively encourage mental healthcare.
Only one-third of workers said their managers actively encourage mental healthcare. Training can help bridge this gap when managers are unsure where to start.
Training can help bridge this gap when managers are unsure where to start. Effective mental health training, as noted by Inc., teaches managers how to approach team members about concerning behavior, listen to employee concerns, and observe key dynamics and behavioral changes. However, the most crucial aspect of this training is the reminder that mental health support must be an ongoing effort — a single initiative isn’t enough.
Maintaining Your Sanity at Work Like a Boss
While much progress has been made in recognizing how work stress affects mental health, it’s equally important to advocate for yourself. So, how do you prioritize your well-being while managing your responsibilities? Here are some tips:
- Pause – Step away from your desk and take your lunch break instead of rushing through it. Choose something you genuinely enjoy eating and make time for a short walk or an activity that calms you.
- Fuel – Avoid stress-eating and focus on foods that energize you.
- Move – Find a way to move your body that’s satisfying and stress-relieving.
- Appreciate – Practice gratitude for what’s going well in your life and the people you care about most.
- Cultivate – Embrace a positive mindset — not toxic positivity, where you ignore your stress, but a healthy approach that helps you navigate challenges. Asking for help when needed can make a big difference.
- Assert – Learn to set boundaries. You don’t have to be the hero and take on more than you can handle. Don’t hesitate to say no, delegate tasks, or talk to your manager if things get overwhelming.
- Celebrate – Acknowledge small wins, whether it’s finally sending that email or completing a big project. Celebrating accomplishments boosts your mindset.
Knowing When to Hold and When to Fold
Taking care of your mental health also means knowing when a situation no longer serves or supports your needs.
Remember the Great Resignation in early 2021? The pandemic caused many to reevaluate priorities, and for some, “the grind” was no longer sustainable. But how do you know when it’s time to move on from your job and embrace new opportunities?
According to Harvard Business Review, it’s time to redirect when “you regularly approach work with exhaustion, burnout, or dread.” It’s not about laziness — it’s about realizing the role no longer fits your sense of purpose.
- Here are other signs it may be time to move on:
- Your workplace culture is so toxic, you’re developing bad habits and a shift in your values.
- Your physical or emotional health is suffering due to a hostile environment with screaming bosses or insulting colleagues.
- You procrastinate or avoid work by doomscrolling or engaging in distractions.
- There are no more opportunities for advancement in your role.
- Your work no longer encourages growth or feels purposeful.
The Meadows Malibu Understands Career Pressure
At The Meadows Malibu, prioritizing mental health isn’t just a trend — it’s our core mission. If workplace stress, anxiety, depression, or co-occurring conditions are affecting you, our compassionate team is here to help. We offer personalized treatment plans designed to help you overcome challenges and reclaim your life. Reach out today to take the first step toward lasting healing and resilience.